The US economy relies on the quarter dollar coin for change, yet you may buy collectible quarters. These more expensive quarter dollars cost more than tiny change to buy. Here are 15 of the most collectible quarters, including proof coins, their selling prices, and their current values (prices vary).
Every current proof coin has frosted devices, deep mirrored fields, and millions are minted for collectors. However, 200 years ago coin collectors could order proof coins. Only 10 proof quarters were created in 1834. A cameo contrast makes rare coins more appealing to collectors.
All proof coins are handled carefully to assure quality. The entire obverse of this proof coin has turned a stunning metallic blue over time. This gorgeous piece is rare and attractive to collectors of vintage US coins because the mint only made four proof coins.
The US Mint began minting quarters in 1796. Quarters were issued again in 1804 with a very tiny mintage of 6,738 pieces. Experts estimate that less than 200 original mintage coins survive today, and fewer than five are mint-condition. This is the best 1804 Draped Bust Quarter of the handful of uncirculated mint state coins.
In 1870, the US Mint opened in Carson City to transform West Coast silver into coins. Coin collectors like Carson City mint coins from this wild West. Only three of 8,340 coins still exist in mint condition, according to experts. As one of the best, this coin is expensive.
Early 1800s US Mint operations were labor-intensive. Handcrafted coin dies were made by skilled craftspeople. The craftspeople hand-punched the letters and numerals into the coin die for efficiency and design integrity.